Place oil in a large pot and saute the onions until soft. Add the garlic and stir for a minute. Add remaining ingredients.
Place 1 teaspoon of the mixture in the middle of a grape leaf, shiny side down, and fold securely. Complete filling. Place lettuce leaves or extra grape leaves in the bottom of a large skillet. Place stuffed grape leaves on top, folded side down. Sprinkle with a little water and cover skillet with a plate. Cook over low heat for one hour. Serve at room temperature.